Top 5 Electric Cars 2015

Here are the top 5 electric cars in the UK at the moment.

1. Nissan LEAF

Building on the success of the first generation Nissan LEAF launched in 2011 which set the standard for battery electric family cars, the 2013 model is refined and improved, raising the bar a second time. With over 100 updates, the official driving range is increased to 123 miles and the recharge time can be halved. Nissan offer the LEAF in four different trims and charging options – Visia, Visia+ Acenta and Tekna – the newest model and/or battery being available through outright purchase or lease to suit buyers of all persuasions. The Nissan LEAF is the most popular electric vehicle in the UK and recorded it’s best ever sales period in September 2014.

2. BMW i3

It is as if the BMW i3 electric is modelled more on a smart phone than a car with a level of connectivity never before seen in a production car. It is also unique in being made from carbon fibre /reinforced plastic and produced from a highly sustainable production cycle. Designed from the outset as a premium urban vehicle, the i3 packs a punch with 170 bhp, accelerating to 62 mph in under 8 seconds. In addition, it has a top speed of 93 mph and a driving range of 80-100 miles. The i3 delivers an all-electric and fully ‘connected’ driving experience, with the quality and style of any BMW machine. What’s more, is that the i3 is one of the first cars to offer a inlet compatible with CCS charging connectors, allowing both AC and DC rapid charging. With its efficient design, impressive range and zero emissions the BMW i3 won the 2014 ‘World Green Car of the Year Award’. On the road prices start at £25,680 (including the £5,000 Government Plug-in Car Grant).

3. Renault Zoe

The Renault ZOE Z.E. supermini is the most popular of the Renault electric range. Its 60 kW (80 hp) electric motor gives an impressive acceleration of 0-60 mph in just 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 84 mph. While a single charge provides a driving range of up to 130 miles. Like others in the Z.E. range, the ZOE is priced at close to ‘normal’ prices, with the battery being leased to reduce upfront costs; from £13,650 (including Plug-in Car Grant) plus £70 monthly for battery lease.

4. Volkswagen e-Up!

The Volkswagen e-Up! is the battery electric version of the popular VW Up! city car. With excellent energy efficiency and a ride to match the e-Up is near faultless, if it weren’t for it being a little pricey (£19,270 OTR including grant). It can accelerate from 0-60mph in 12.4 seconds and has top speed of 80 mph. It is fitted with charging inlet that takes a CCS connector and therefore is one of the few cars capable of both AC and DC rapid charging. The e-Up! also offers an impressive range of 100 miles.

5. Tesla Model S

Not only does it have a decent range (260 to 320 miles) depending how hard you drive it, the Model S is faster than some AMG Mercedes models that would achieve 10 mpg on fossil fuels. The Model S on the other hand emits zero tailpipe emissions virtue of it being abattery electric EV. With Tesla’s supercharger network owners of the Model S now have free access to charging points across the UK that pump out 120kW, enough to facilitate an 80% charge in 20 minutes. The car has been a huge success internationally and among many accolades it was named the ‘World Green Car of the Year’ for 2013. For business users the Model S makes massive sense especially under current taxation policies.